Cytokines like interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are proposed to be proximal mediators in the early stages of inflammation. They modulate many of the early inflammatory response that is induced by tissue injury, infection, or an immune stimulus (3, 4). Although the response is a critical first line of defense against pathogens, when the inflammatory reaction is uncontrolled, it can cause more damage to the host than the initial stimulus. TNF-α is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that is very effective in local and systemic inflammations (5). In addition, TNF-α increases the production of other inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and interleukin-18 (IL-18) during the inflammatory process. Therefore, it initially brings infections under control, produces coagulation in the damaged tissue, and stimulates tissue improvement. An excessive increase of TNF-α level causes an extreme immune reaction and contributes to the development of atherosclerosis, shock, endotoxemia, and chronic inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and inflammatory bowel disease (5-7). Yim and colleagues reported a decrease in increased serum TNF-α, IL-6, and interferon gamma levels by arthritis as a result of electroacupuncture treatment (9). In a rat model for ulcerative colitis, acupuncture inhibited the expression of IL-1β and IL-6 (10). It has been reported that acupuncture significantly reduces complete Freund's adjuvant-induced hind paw edema and mouse air pouch inflammation (11, 12). Acupuncture could also improve immune dysfunction after surgical stress both in human and animals (13, 14).